Flashback on 25 Years of NCAA’s Regulatory Milestone
The 25th anniversary of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) provided an opportunity for key industry stakeholders to reflect on the agency’s achievements while charting a course for its future. The symposium, held in Abuja, underscored NCAA’s role in shaping a safer, more economically viable aviation industry in Nigeria.
With the theme “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” the event brought together policymakers, industry experts, and aviation professionals to discuss the pressing need for technological adaptation and stronger economic regulation to enhance air travel safety.
A Quarter-Century of Aviation Excellence
Over the past 25 years, the NCAA has been at the forefront of aviation safety, ensuring compliance with international best practices while balancing the industry’s economic realities. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, emphasized the need for sustained efforts in safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and innovative practices to maintain NCAA’s successes.
“Aviation safety is not a one-time achievement; it is a continuous process of adaptation and improvement,” Kana stated, acknowledging the impact of technological advancements and the dynamic nature of global aviation.
Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, echoed these sentiments, stressing that NCAA must continue embracing emerging technologies, enhancing operational efficiencies, and fostering strategic partnerships to elevate Nigeria’s aviation sector to new heights.
“As we move forward, we are guided by the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation,” Najomo noted.
A Look to the Future: Economic Regulation and Training
One of the highlights of the event was the announcement of a specialized training program for NCAA staff. Najomo revealed that the authority had engaged ICAO-certified trainers to equip personnel with the necessary skills to improve economic regulation in the industry. This move aligns with global best practices and ensures that airlines, airports, and other aviation stakeholders operate within a structured and economically sustainable framework.
Former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Akin Caulcrick, emphasized the importance of investing in subsidized aviation training to cultivate a skilled workforce. “By prioritizing human capital development, we can equip the next generation of aviators with the expertise required to drive innovation and industry growth,” he said.
Similarly, Dr. Anastasia Gbem, NCAA’s Director of Human Resources and Chairperson of the NCAA @25 Planning Committee, reinforced the agency’s commitment to continuous improvement. “Human capital is one of the most critical assets for any organization that aspires to succeed. At NCAA, we prioritize it because safety begins with well-trained professionals,” she affirmed.
Industry Endorsement and Stakeholder Reflections
NCAA’s regulatory effectiveness was also acknowledged by Mr. George Uriesi, Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air. He lauded the authority’s professionalism, stating, “The NCAA is effective and highly professional. No matter your relationship with them, compliance with safety and regulatory standards is non-negotiable.”
The Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation also commended NCAA for its unwavering commitment to upholding safety and operational excellence.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead
As the NCAA enters its next phase, economic regulation and technological innovation will be pivotal in shaping the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry. The agency’s focus on human capital development, regulatory enforcement, and infrastructure investment underscores its mission to maintain global standards and position Nigeria as an aviation hub in Africa.
With the roadmap set at the 25th anniversary symposium, the next 25 years of NCAA promise to be even more transformative, ensuring safer skies, better economic oversight, and a more resilient aviation sector.
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